Longqing Gorge, an easy day trip from Beijing, makes for a lovely year-round getaway from the capital. Though its natural state has been quite modified—the Longqing Gorge Scenic Area features northern China's largest dam, the world's longest outdoor escalator (made to look like a dragon for extra measure) and a number of other Chinese crowd-pleasers—the area's rugged jutting peaks, wooded terrain and Gucheng River (now a reservoir known as Jiuqu Lake) are a sight for city-sore eyes. Return visits are worth it, if possible—spring and summer greenery gives way to lovely fall foliage, and winter is occasion for an impressive ice festival.

The area has long been favored as an escape from the heat and bustle of Beijing, drawing imperial holiday-makers for centuries. Summer temperatures run almost 3ºC lower than in the city, and the gorges are, well, gorgeous, touristic kitsch notwithstanding. If you've been to Guilin, you'll understand why the area is often compared to the Li River's landscape of karst peaks reflected in smooth-flowing waters. If you've been to the Three Gorges, you'll also likely feel a twinge of recognition, and the drowned lower reaches of the gorge behind the dam give some idea of what the more famous gorges might look like in the near future.

The Scenic Area comprises some 120 square km (74 square miles) and, along with the dam-scaling dragon escalator, there are cable car rides, gardens, caves and tunnels, bungee jumps, water slides and boat rides to enjoy. Boating and picnicking are popular, and there are plenty of spots for light hiking and climbing. There are several hotels—difficult to book at peak times—in the immediate area, and a stay of several days allows for trips to the nearby Badaling Great Wall, Song Shan Forest Park and Haituo Shan.

The Ice Festival is held every January and February and rivals Harbin's annual extravaganza for sheer over-the-top electric-lit ice-sculpting exuberance.

For a little more information and some pics, check out this essay on Longqing Gorge here.